Learn More About the HPA Experience

What Sets HPA Apart—and Why It Matters

Founded in 1949, Hawai‘i Preparatory Academy is a college-preparatory day and boarding school serving students in grades K–12 and postgraduates. Located on Hawai‘i Island, HPA offers a rigorous academic experience within a safe, supportive, and globally connected community.

Here, students are challenged to excel—developing strong academic foundations, critical-thinking skills, and the confidence to succeed at top universities worldwide. Through a dynamic program that includes 16 Advanced Placement courses, capstone research, and signature experiences like our award-winning Energy Lab, students go beyond traditional academics to design projects, conduct real-world research, and build an impressive body of work that sets them apart in the college admissions process and beyond.

Don’t Wait — Let’s Connect!

Where we learn

Distinct by Design. Secure. Built for Growth.

At HPA, students thrive in a safe, supportive community designed for focus and growth. Set on Hawai‘i Island, our campus builds confidence, independence, and connection—while staying just one direct flight from major West Coast cities.

More about our island

Recent College Destinations

Our college counseling program takes a strategic, individualized approach to placement—guiding students toward highly regarded universities and programs that align with their strengths, ambitions, and potential. The goal is not just admission, but the right fit at a place where each student can excel.

Amherst College
Amsterdam University College
Baylor University
Boston University
Brown University
Chapman University
Columbia University

Dartmouth College
Duke University
Georgetown University
Northeastern University
Pomona College
Stanford University
University of Chicago

Princeton University
Harvard College
California Institute of Technology
University of Oxford
University of Cambridge
Williams College
Yale University

Welcoming, global community

If you choose to board at HPA, you’ll be in good company. Roughly 50 percent of our Upper School students live on campus. Some students come from as far as Nigeria or New York City; others are Hawai‘i residents who prefer the convenience (and fun) of dormitory life.

Boarding at HPA

Active, ambitious academics

What are you passionate about? Even if you don’t quite know what your “thing” is yet, we’re ready to help you explore. We believe a high school education should empower you to do real stuff in the real world. It should prepare you for the self-motivated work that universities expect and the ingenuity that future employers will demand.

Signature Programs

22 teams, 16 different sports

If you are a high school athlete looking for competitive, interscholastic play, you will find expert coaching and conditioning on our 22 athletic teams. HPA belongs to the Big Island Interscholastic Federation (24 member schools) and the Hawaii High School Athletic Association (96 member schools). Go Ka Makani!

Upper School Athletics

Outdoor program and unforgettable activities

On Hawai‘i Island, you can go from the snow-covered top of volcano at 13,803 feet (4,701 meters) to a white sands beach in a single day. We are surrounded by 11 of the world’s 13 climate zones; three active volcanoes (at a safe distance from campus); precious marine ecosystems; a dynamic mix of Hawaiian and world cultures; and limitless possibilities for outdoor fun.

Our Island

Tiare Judd Police ’86, P ‘13, ‘15, ‘21

Director of Admission

tpolice@hpa.edu
(808) 881-4023

Book a meeting

Janet Kalaniopio, P ‘17, ‘20, ‘24, senior associate director of admission

Specializing in grades 9-12 (PG) domestic US and Asia boarding student admissions

jkalaniopio@hpa.edu
(808) 881-4085

Book a meeting

Maria Mora, international boarding

Specializing in grades 9-12 (PG) in Europe, Latin/South America, and other international locations except Asia

mm.admissions@hpa.edu
WhatsApp me: +34 637.122.488

Book a meeting

Stephanie Stewart, P ‘38, assistant director of admission

Specializing in pre-K and kindergarten to 8th-grade day student admissions

sstewart@hpa.edu
(808) 881-4091

Book a meeting

Tayler Wang ’10 P ’35, assistant director of admission

Specializing in grades 9-12 day and in-state boarding admissions

twang@hpa.edu
(808) 881-4063

Book a meeting

Learn More About HPA! Join us for an event

You don’t have to be on-island to connect with HPA. We offer virtual information sessions, as well as in-person open houses and campus tours throughout the year. We look forward to connecting with you.

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